Sun Mar 30 15:37:47 UTC 2025: **Kerala Whale Shark Rescue Group Celebrates Success Amidst Increased Strandings**
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, March 30, 2025 – A volunteer group of marine wildlife enthusiasts in Thiruvananthapuram is celebrating a significant success in rescuing whale sharks stranded on local beaches. Since 2021, the group, led by Ajith Shanghumughom of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), has saved 23 whale sharks, a number that has risen sharply this summer, coinciding with the sharks’ migratory season from the Arabian Sea to Australia’s western coast (January-March).
The rescues often involve collaboration with local fishermen who, despite potential losses to their nets, prioritize freeing the gentle giants. The group utilizes online video tutorials to educate fishermen on proper rescue techniques, countering the mistaken belief that beached whale sharks are dead. A recent 10-hour rescue operation at Kochuveli beach highlights the group’s dedication; they identified subtle signs of life in a shark initially presumed dead by fishermen.
Government initiatives, including a ban on whale shark hunting (2001) and the export of shark fins and meat (2019), along with compensation for fishermen who assist in rescues, have contributed to the increase in whale shark sightings. Professor A. Bijukumar of the University of Kerala attributes the increase to successful conservation efforts. The group’s educational outreach programs in schools and colleges further support conservation efforts by raising awareness among the next generation.
The collaboration between the volunteer group, local fishermen, the Forest Department, and the WTI demonstrates a successful community-based conservation model that’s contributing to the apparent rise in whale shark populations along India’s coast.
First Piper 